Did you realize that the Museum of Northern Arizona has extensive collection holdings in anthropology (historic and prehistoric Native American items) and paleontology as well as a library/archive? Have you ever wondered why a museum would maintain such a wonderful collection when only a small portion is on display? If you want to see some wonderful treasures, and hear some great stories, come on a collections tour. Besides viewing objects, specimens, documents, rare books, and photographs, you will find out about the life that collections have behind the scenes. Who uses these collections, who borrows them and for what purpose, what preservation problems they face, what current projects are underway, and why they exist. You can get information on how to care for your own family heirlooms.

Collections Manager, Elaine Hughes, is pictured at left conducting a recent tour. Tours of Collections are offered on a rotating basis on the third Friday of the month at 4PM. During the months of July and August all three tours are offered and attendees must decide which of the three they wish to attend.

Pre-registration is required and children must be over the age of 10. Call the Membership Office (928-5213 x219) to reserve your space. The tours are free to members (donations appreciated) and $10 for non-members.

These walking tours begin in the MNA Library. Attendees can get maps and pay tour fees at the MNA Exhibit Front Desk. Be aware that most of the collection storage areas are not ADA accessible at this time.

2008 Collections Tour Dates

• Jan. 18 Anthropology
• Feb. 15 Library Archives
• Mar 21 Paleontology
• April 18 Anthropology
• May 16 Library Archives
• Jun 20 Paleontology
• July 18 Anthropology
• Aug. 15 Library Archives
• Sept. 19 Paleontology
• Oct. 17 Anthropology
• Nov. 21 Library Archives
• Dec. 19 Paleontology

MNA Collection Tours – Information for Attendees

1. Guest passes are not valid for this program.
2. Tours begin promptly at 4PM.
3. Bring only necessary personal items. Bags, purses, bulky coats and other items must be left in a secured area in collections before the tour begins.
4. Unfortunately collection areas are not ADA accessible and this should be viewed as a walking tour.
5. Closed shoes and long pants are recommended.
6. The tour limit is 10 people with a minimum of 4.